CLAAS, one of the leading manufacturers of agricultural machinery worldwide, was able to increase its sales to a new record of 3.889 billion euros (previous year: 3.761 billion euros). Profit before taxes increased to 226 million euros (previous year: 184 million euros).

"We have continued our growth in a volatile market environment and once again significantly improved our profitability. A strong impetus originated from Germany and Western Europe in particular," said Hermann Lohbeck, speaker of the CLAAS Executive Board.

The global market for professional agricultural technology saw continued development this year, in line with associated expectations. Against this background, CLAAS improved revenue in core countries including Germany, France and the United Kingdom. In Eastern Europe, a slight project-related decline in sales was observed. A mixed picture emerged in the countries outside of Europe: while sales in North America increased in the local currency, China recorded a decline as a result of market uncertainty.